1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2005 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Sharan (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 435 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Volkswagen Sharan (170 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2005 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
